Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer isn't as common as some other cancers, but it's a serious disease that can be devastating if not caught early. It's important to be aware of its symptoms and what increases your risk so you can take steps toward prevention.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer can start with subtle changes, which is why it's important to pay attention to what's normal for your mouth. Early detection makes all the difference. It's also why regular dental checkups matter, as dentists are trained to catch things you might miss.

Let’s go over the common oral cancer symptoms:

Sores That Stick Around

Any sore inside your mouth, on your lips, gums, or tongue that hasn't healed within two weeks warrants a professional examination. Persistent sores can indicate abnormal cell changes, which require further investigation to rule out cancer.

White, Red, or Mixed Patches

These patches can appear anywhere in your mouth and may be flat, rough, raised, or feel thick to the touch. Healthy oral tissue is usually smooth and uniform in color.

Lumps or Swelling

Any new or unusual lumps, bumps, or thickening in your mouth, cheeks, jaw, or neck should be investigated. These can occur inside or outside your mouth and might be painless.

Persistent Pain

If you experience lingering mouth pain, a sore throat that doesn't go away, or pain in your tongue, it's important to consult a healthcare professional.

Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing

Problems with chewing, swallowing, moving your tongue, or feeling like something is caught in your throat can be signs of oral cancer. These symptoms can indicate that a tumor is interfering with normal functions.

Numbness

Any numbness in your mouth, tongue, lips, or face should be checked, especially if it's persistent. Numbness can signal nerve involvement or damage, potentially from a tumor pressing on nerves.

Voice Changes

A hoarse voice that doesn't improve, especially if you don't smoke, could cause concern. Persistent hoarseness or voice changes can be related to changes in the throat or vocal cords.

Unexplained Earache

A persistent earache on one side should be evaluated, particularly if it's not associated with a cold or other known cause. The ache could indicate referred pain from an oral or throat tumor.

What Are the Risk Factors for Oral Cancer?

While there's no single cause for oral cancer, certain factors significantly increase your likelihood of developing it.

Major Risk Factors

Some major risk factors for oral cancer are:

• Tobacco use ⁠— Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using chewing tobacco are the biggest culprits. The majority of oral cancer patients have a history of tobacco use.
• Heavy alcohol consumption — Excessive alcohol use, especially combined with smoking, drastically increases your risk of oral cancer.
• HPV infection — Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can raise your risk of developing cancer in the back of the throat and base of the tongue.
• Sun exposure — Overexposure to the sun can lead to lip cancer. Protect your lips with sunscreen or lip balm containing SPF.

Additional Contributing Factors

A diet lacking fruits and vegetables may also increase your risk of oral cancer. Additionally, if you have close relatives who have been diagnosed with oral cancer, your risk may be higher.

Remember that these are just risk factors; having one or more doesn't guarantee you'll get oral cancer. Many of these factors are modifiable. By making healthier lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk.

How Is Oral Cancer Diagnosed?

Getting an oral cancer diagnosis can be scary. However, understanding the process, what treatments are out there, and how to cope with them can make it feel more manageable.

The diagnosis starts with a thorough examination by your dentist or doctor, who will look at your mouth, throat, and surrounding areas. They’ll also ask about your symptoms and risk factors, such as smoking.

The definitive diagnosis is made through a biopsy, where a small sample of suspicious tissue is taken and examined under a microscope. If cancer is confirmed, imaging scans like CT or MRI are used to determine the extent of the cancer's spread. These scans also help plan the appropriate treatment.

Treatment for Oral Cancer

Treatment for oral cancer is tailored to each individual, taking into account the type and size of the cancer, its location, and your overall health. The primary treatment options include:

Surgery

The goal is to surgically remove the tumor and, in some cases, a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it to ensure complete removal.

Radiation Therapy

This involves using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It may be used as the sole treatment, after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells, or in combination with chemotherapy to enhance its effectiveness.

Chemotherapy

These powerful drugs target and kill cancer cells throughout the body. While sometimes used alone, chemotherapy is often combined with radiation therapy to boost its impact.

Targeted Therapy

This newer approach uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy cells, potentially leading to fewer side effects.

Oral cancer is a serious condition, but early detection is key to successful treatment. Be vigilant about changes in your mouth. If anything seems unusual or persistent, don't hesitate to consult your doctor or dentist.

By understanding the risk factors and recognizing early signs, you can take proactive steps to protect your oral health and overall well-being.